Irene E. (Zyzes) Grikenis

Irene Grikenis, 89, died peacefully on Thursday, November 19, 2015, at Good Shepherd Village, Endwell, where she had been a resident since March of this year.  She was predeceased by her husband, Casey Grikenis in 1999; her parents, Edna & Paul Zyzes; and her dear friend, Keith Beardslee in May 2015.  Irene is survived by her devoted godson, Deacon Ron Yurcus and his wife, Kathy; cousins, Aldona Olson and Evelyn Hewitt and their families; she also leaves behind her "just like family", Dee Smith and her children and grandchildren; and the Sunday bunch, Ellen, Donna and Sally.  Cori Williamson, Debbie Thorpe and Keith Beardslee were her support team and made it possible for Irene to remain in the home that she loved.  She is also survived by many devoted and loving friends. Irene was an enthusiastic member of the Church of the Holy Family and regularly participated in the Bible Study group.  She was a member of the Knights of Lithuania, participating in ethnic festivals, choral events, and was responsible for decorating the Lithuanian tree at the Roberson Christmas Forest. She enjoyed opera and classical music and was a member of the Harmony Club.  Irene enjoyed many Lyceum Classes and shopping at Wegmans.  Irene was a graduate of Kelly HS and Wilson Junior College.  She was a "career girl"; she was a 17 year employee of Illinois Bell until she and Casey moved to Endwell for IBM. She then spent another 17 years working in the library at Jennie F. Snapp Middle School.  A Funeral Mass will be offered at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, November 24, 2015, at the Church of the Holy Family, 3001 Phyllis Dr., Endwell, NY 13760.  Family will receive friends at the church on Tuesday from 10:00 AM until the time of the Mass at 11:00 AM.  Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.  Irene requested that memorial donations be made to Mercy House, in care of the Church of the Holy Family.   Arrangements by Bednarsky Funeral Home, Inc.

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